Carol M. lives as far away from the Providence Animal Shelter as one can and still be considered a resident of Providence. But, that's exactly where her seven year old female, Maltese, "Star" was on December 7, 2001. Star was picked up as a stray, and aside from needing to be groomed, appeared to be in good condition.

Star was so small that she was first placed in the Shelter's cat room. But, alas, the cage proved too small even for little Star and she was moved to the dog area. Carpeting was placed in her run and a heat lamp added extra protection. Star was constantly given special care and attention because of her size. The staff and Volunteers saw to it that she spent as much time as possible out of her cage. She was babied and loved. Since Star's belly was tattooed, with a social security number, those at the shelter thought the owner would be quickly found. That was not to be the case however.

Director John Washburn's attempts to locate the owner were crushed when the Social Security Administration would not release the owner's name. John took it upon himself to go in person to Social Security. By doing so, Mr. Washburn convinced the office to contact the owner's employer and ask them to contact Carol. Unfortunately, it all took time ..... Meanwhile, Carol never gave up her search for Star. She was constantly placing ads in the newspapers, putting up flyers, and calling all the shelters on a weekly basis. It was obvious to her that somebody else was caring for Star since she found her fylers taken down every week. Carol had lost Star on June 28, 2001, when a contractor inadvertently left Carol's back yard gate open. Almost six months to the day... and then on December 22, 2001, Carol and Star were reunited! It was a Christmas like no other! Star has not left Carol's side for a second, and is still somewhat shaken by her ordeal.

So here's to Carol and her Star..We the staff and volunteers at Providence Animal Control, wish them the happiest of New Years, and want to remind everybody that When You Wish Upon a "Star" - Your Dreams Do Come True!